Trek grade: moderate to adventurous.
Trip duration. 15-16 days.


Introduction:

Ladakh is a high-altitude desert, sheltered from the rain-bearing clouds of the Indian monsoon by the barrier of the Great Himalaya. Occasionally, some stray monsoon clouds do find their way over the Himalaya.

Ladakh lies at altitudes ranging from about 9,000 feet (2750m) at Kargil to 25,170 feet (7,672m) at Saser Kangri in the Karakoram. Thus summer temperatures rarely exceed about 27 degree Celsius in the shade, while in winter they may plummet to -20 degree Celsius even in Leh. Surprisingly, though, the thin air makes the heat of the sun even more intense than at lower altitudes.

Trekking in Ladakh is a rewarding experience, it is not enough to be physically fit; trekkers must also be prepared to face the rigors of back country travel. There are considerable fluctuations in day and night temperatures even during the height of summer. While the days are pretty warm, even hot, due to the desert effect of the barren landscape, evenings can become chilly.

The Markha to Himis trek is one of the most beautiful treks; in difficulty rated moderate to strenuous on account of the high passes that need to be crossed. It includes an exciting crossing of the Zanskar River by trolley at the village of Chiling. It leads through several villages in the Sham and Markha valleys, passing many chortens and mani walls, but mostly through remote areas. At the start of the trek you visit the oldest monastery of Ladakh, Lamayuru, which is reputedly also the most stunning in terms of its site and views.

The beautiful valley of Markha is overshadowed by many spectacular peaks, Stok Kangri (6123m) and notably Kang Yatse (6400m) among others. The walk follows crossing the Kongmaru La (5150m), the highest pass on this trek, the trail passes through Hemis National Park, created to preserve the endangered snow leopard and other wildlife, and finally brings you to Hemis, the richest and most famous monastery of Ladakh, and the conclusion of the trek.

Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival at Delhi via respective airlines.
Day 02: Fly from Delhi to Leh, Ladakh.
Day 03-4: Sight seeing tour of Leh.
Day 05: Drive to Spituk 7 km. Trek to Zinchen 5-6 hrs walk.
Day 06: Trek to Yurutse. 6 hrs. O/N Camp.
Day 07: Trek to Skiu. Approx. 6 hrs.
Day 08: Trek to Markha. Approx. 7 hrs.
Day 09: Trek to Tahungtse 5-6 hours.
Day 10: Trek to Nimaling 4-5 hours.
Day 11: Rest day in Nimaling.
Today a rest day with optional short hike toward Kang Yatse Glacier. After a late breakfast walk toward the glacier for the magnificent view.
Day 12: Trek to Shang Sumdo. Via Kongmaru-La. 6-7 hours.
Day 13: Trek to Martselang or Hemis, 5-6 hrs.
Day 14: Free day in Leh.
Day 15: Fly from Leh to Delhi.
Day 16: International Departure.

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